The Wisconsin School of Business at 125: Over a century of doing business the Badger way–rooted in transformation, driven by curiosity, and powered by people. From being one of the first five business schools in the nation to leading groundbreaking research and bold ideas, WSB has always asked: What’s next?
And the answer? It’s us. It’s you. Our students, alumni, faculty, and staff, our Business Badgers–writing the story then, now, and what comes next.
Students take a final semester exam in Professor H.Z. Kirby’s class at the UW School of Commerce in 1951. It later became the Wisconsin School of Business.A snapshot of the University of Wisconsin School of Business in the 1980’s, where learning continues through every season, from the quiet snowfall outside to the focused minds within. While the classroom has evolved, the dedication to education remains timeless.From 1993, when Professor Robert H. Bock advised MBA students Michele Collier and Lisa Craig, to today’s bright minds shaping the future in Grainger Hall, our legacy of mentorship continues.A look back at the dynamic classroom environment at WSB, where learning has always been at the core of our legacy. From early lecture halls to today’s modern spaces, the commitment to shaping future leaders remains as strong as ever. As we celebrate 125 years of excellence, the progression is clear: The passion for knowledge and collaboration has only grown stronger.In 1995, WSB students learned with early digital tools like CD-ROM management simulations in a traditional computer lab. Fast forward to 2019 and students are applying advanced analytics in a modern, collaborative Finance and Analytics Lab, sharing real insights with industry experts such as Seth Partnow. The technology has changed, but our commitment to innovation has always remained at the core of WSB.From cameraman Richard K. Willgrubs filming Professor Robert A. Haugen for a class-by-video experiment broadcast on cable TV in 1985 to 2025’s AI Hub for Business, WSB continues to pioneer innovation in business education. The UW Marketing Club laid the foundation in 1962, and the Wisconsin Marketing Organization continues that legacy today by connecting students with local businesses, collaborating with industry leaders, and preparing the next generation of marketing professionals.
